Where Does NY State Rank For Summer Road Trips in U.S.?

New York’s ranking as the second-best state for a summer road trip anchors WalletHub’s study, illustrating how the Empire State stacks up against regional rivals. WalletHub's summer road-trip study analyzed all 50 states across 32 factors to identify which destinations offer the best balance of practicality and experiences for long highway trips. New York was ranked the second-best state for a road trip, just behind Minnesota and ahead of Ohio, reflecting a strong overall profile. The methodology weighed gas prices, road conditions, safety, attractions, camping costs, and lodging availability along the route, creating a comprehensive score. Large, diverse states often score highly by combining practical travel conditions with rich experiential options. Within New York, travelers can explore the Adirondacks, Finger Lakes, Catskills, and Niagara Falls, all within relatively short drives.